Londesborough Lodge, Scarborough

Client: The ROKPA Trust

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

Holland Brown Architects submitted an application for planning approval and listed building consent for alterations to Londesborough Lodge, Scarborough on behalf of Kagyu Samye Dzong, ROKPA Trust. This formed part of the feasibility and business plan which enabled the process of Asset Transfer to ROKPA by Scarborough Borough Council. Essentially, ROKPA wished to take over the building on a permanent basis for their teaching and learning activities.

Set in fine grounds with large principal rooms enjoying views over the sea, the lodge (Grade II listed status) was begun in 1839. It was passed through various private families until being sold in 1919 to be used as a Turkish bath and health spa run by the former Municipal Borough. In later years, the building was used by the Council’s Tourism and then Museums and Gallery Service. Although the building has undergone some changes throughout its life, very little has changed externally in over one hundred and fifty years.

Our input involved a condition survey of the building, a full measured survey and the obtaining of planning and listed building consents. The design brief was refined and proposals include teaching spaces, meditation and yoga facilities, in-house facilities for volunteers, catering, administration and community spaces.

Whereby there is some change envisaged to the interior on all floors, a limited amount of necessary re-use and re-siting of historic components will ensure that these features will stay within their historic context and therefore enhance those rooms and spaces where they have been removed in the past. The exterior is to remain almost untouched in terms of alteration, with the exception of the installation of a platform lift. Comprehensive repairs will also be required to the building shell.

The work has included a limited amount of necessary re-use and re-siting of historic components to ensure features will stay within their historic context. The exterior has remained almost untouched.

The practice has recently been commissioned to assist with the final phase of refurbishment and alteration works, mainly in the basement areas and these will provide community, teaching and catering facilities as well as the installation of an external lift.